The practice offers a service to solicitors and their clients in matters relating either directly or indirectly to the built environment.

We have over forty years experience of investigating and reporting on disputes and have assembled a comprehensive database which contains all prevailing relevant statutory requirements Codes of Practices. British Standards and accepted methods of building within the Construction Industry.

Dependent upon specific Instructions our reports are generally drafted in accordance with the `Model Form of Expert’s Report’as published by the Academy of Experts. This is fully comprehensive and allows a lawyer to draw-up either a Statement of Claim, a Defence or a Counterclaim.

The Report takes into account the Civil Procedure Rules adopted in England and Wales, and subsequent case law applying such rules,and also the Protocol for Instruction of Experts to give evidence in civil claims, drafted by the Civil Justice Council and approved by the Master of the roles.

The Report format is as follows:

1.    Introduction
2.    The Background to the Dispute and the Issues
3.    The Technical Investigation (Enquiry)
4.    The Facts on which the Experts Opinion is based
5.    Expert’s Opinion
6.    Summary of Conclusions

Appendix 1 Experience, Qualifications, Appointments, Speciality of the writer and of those who have assisted in the preparation of the report.
Appendix 2 Documents which have been considered.
Appendix 3 Texts and published material referred to.
Appendix 4 Photographs, drawings, schedules, laboratory reports prepared or
referred to.

Recent Cases

Outlined below are a random selection of diverse recent cases where we have been involved. These briefly illustrate the scope and versatility of our experience.

1. A right of way had allegedly been obstructed by a fence. We proved that statutory rights for the access of a 30′ ladder had not been prejudiced by means of scale drawings, photographs and a model.

2. A new workshop exhibited unusual cracking patterns. An investigation revealed that despite being approved on completion by the Local Authority. The structure contravened the Building Regulations and was not in accordance with contract documents. The building was recommended to he demolished and a financial counterclaim was calculated.

3. A contractor became bankrupt. A nominated subcontractor demanded direct payment from the client despite monies having being previously released. Investigations revealed that the supervising officer had not undertaken his contractual duties in a correctly defined manner and was therefore liable for the outstanding debt.

4. A footpath around a newly constructed extension had collapsed, seriously injuring the occupant. It was discovered on investigation that the whole structure was damp and that it had been formed in total disregard of approved contractual drawings and accepted methods of construction.

5. A customer was injured by falling down a staircase through a glazed door. It was proved that the staircase was not in accordance with recommended standards and that the glass was not of a quality suitable for use in a public place.

6. A building was allegedly formed on land owned by others. Measurement and investigation revealed that this was indeed fact and that the H.M. Land Registry plan was incorrect and was subsequently rectified. Compensation was obtained.

7. A structure was investigated where three reported items of construction were regarded as being suspect. A building contractor was demanding final payment by menace. Over sixty defective items were discovered. The claim was dropped and a counterclaim successfully pursued.

Charges are based on the time spent by staff on matters where instructions are issued. All the time spent is recorded and charged at an hourly rate based upon the seniority and experience of the member of staff undertaking the work.

Generally it is not possible to accurately estimate the full amount of costs in advance because it will he impossible to predict precisely the amount of time which is likely to be expended. Any indication furnished will therefore be a “guestimate” rather than a formal quotation.
Clients can set a limit on the costs which may he incurred before we refer to them again.

In certain instances (by negotiation) where uncertainty exist over whether a dispute exists, without charge, helpful and meaningful advice can be furnished.

Services Provide:
•    Party Appointed Expert
•    Single Joint Expert
•    Expert Advisor
•    Expert Determination